How Do Blueberries Grow?

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Blueberries grow on deciduous or evergreen bushes from 3 1/2’ (lowbush) to 10’ (highbush) in Hardiness Zones 3 to 10. 

Blueberries begin to fruit within 3 years of planting and produce optimally after 6.

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Seasonal Growth

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Winter:Dormancy

Spring: Bushes flower then develop into pale green, then reddish-purple, then dark blue berries.

Summer: Berries ripen from May to August depending on variety.

Fall: Leaves on bushes turn red and fall or remain evergreen depending on variety.

Blueberry bushes live and fruit up to 50 years.

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Health Benefits

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Are blueberries healthy?

Blueberries are one of the best sources of antioxidants.

A couple of studies have shown a positive impact on blood pressure, blood sugar regulation and lowered cholesterol.

A study of older adults, with an average age of 72, showed improved cognitive function and memory after 12 weeks of eating 2 cups of blueberries a day.

 

History

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Where do blueberries come from?

Blueberries are native to North America and were introduced to Europe in the 1930s. They are now grown throughout the world.

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Propagation

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Blueberries are usually grown from cuttings but may be grown from seed. In order to have a productive crop, two or more bushes of different varieties must be planted together for purposes of cross-pollination and hardiness.

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Harvest

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When are blueberries harvested?

Blueberries are harvested May through late summer depending on region and variety.

Hand-picking is common; commercial growers use shakers to harvest the fruit.

Blueberries have a shelf life of less than 2 weeks after harvest when refrigerated. 

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Storage

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How are blueberries stored?

Blueberries are best stored dry and packaged in the refrigerator, or frozen.

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Fun Facts

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Which countries produce the most blueberries?

United States (Maine and Michigan top producing states), Canada, Chile, Australia, Europe

Florida Blueberry Production

 

How many varieties of blueberries are there?

There are hundreds of varieties of blueberries, wild and commercial.

 

Blueberries are sold fresh or frozen. They lose none of their nutritional value when frozen.